Evaluating the Underdogs: A Detailed Analysis of Club World Cup Group Stage Odds
The expanded FIFA Club World Cup in 2025 promises a captivating global competition. Set to unfold in the United States this June and July, the tournament will feature thirty-two teams vying for a new trophy. While established European giants are widely favored, several "underdog" outfits from various continents could deliver significant upsets.
The revamped format offers a truly global challenge, setting the stage for fascinating and spectacular matches.
This analysis will explore these intriguing “underdog” teams, examining their unique strengths and assessing their potential group stage prospects.
Al Ahly: Africa's Relentless Winners
Al Ahly, hailing from Egypt, is a seemingly unstoppable force in African football. This dominant club has secured four of the last CAF Champions League titles. They have also clinched their top-flight domestic championship for the past three consecutive years.
In the new tournament format, Al Ahly finds itself in a relatively favorable group. They are set to face Inter Miami, Palmeiras, and Porto. This draw provides a strong opportunity to progress beyond their previous nine Club World Cup appearances, which yielded limited success.
For those monitoring Club World Cup betting odds, Al Ahly's proven track record and current momentum could make them an enticing dark horse pick. Their consistent winning pedigree makes them a formidable opponent.
Al Hilal: Financial Muscle and Star Power
Al Hilal's "underdog" label is somewhat debatable given their substantial financial foundations. This Saudi club has recently won both the Saudi Pro League and AFC Champions League titles. Their impressive roster boasts a lineup of international stars, including Yassine Bounou and prolific forward Aleksandar Mitrovic.
Adding to their strategic advantage, Simone Inzaghi, a highly respected former Inter manager, has just taken over as their new coach. Al Hilal aims to challenge European powerhouse Real Madrid in Group H, strongly fancying their chances of securing a top-two finish. This is a team that certainly has the firepower to unnerve top European sides.
Botafogo: Brazilian Grit and Flair
Botafogo earned their coveted spot at the Club World Cup by achieving a historic first-ever Copa Libertadores title in 2024. In the same remarkable year, they also clinched the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A championship. Heading into this summer’s tournament, the Brazilian side will already be in peak competition mode, as it falls midway through their current domestic campaign.
Despite presently sitting sixth in their league after eleven matches, their squad still boasts considerable talent. Players like Jair Cunha are attracting significant interest from European clubs. Botafogo will bring a uniquely South American mix of toughness and style to the tournament, posing a tough challenge even to powerhouses like Paris Saint-Germain or Atlético Madrid in Group B.
Flamengo: South American Challengers
Flamengo, another powerful Brazilian outfit, aims to upset the odds at the tournament. As the 2022 Copa Libertadores winners, they are currently leading the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A.
Flamengo previously caused significant problems for Liverpool in the 2019 Club World Cup final. In that match, the English club narrowly escaped with a 1-0 victory after extra time.
This year, Flamengo seeks to present Chelsea with a similar tactical conundrum in the group stage. The team is led by former Chelsea defender Filipe Luis and features impressive Brazilian internationals like Danilo and Gerson. Uruguayan star Giorgian de Arrascaeta poses a major threat in the attacking third.
Inter Miami: Messi's Influence and High-Scoring Games
Inter Miami’s inclusion in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, granted through a special invitation rather than sporting merit, was met with some controversy. Nonetheless, their presence guarantees major attention, largely due to the global draw of Lionel Messi, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.
The squad also features other legendary former Barcelona players, including Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Luis Suárez. Adding to this star power, Javier Mascherano now manages the team. Inter Miami has scored more goals than any other team in MLS this season.
However, their defense is notably leaky, having conceded twenty-seven goals in just sixteen matches. They will likely rely on outscoring opponents like Palmeiras and Al Ahly to advance from Group A.
Mamelodi Sundowns: African Dominance Shifts North
Mamelodi Sundowns has decisively ended the long-standing dominance of Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs in South African football. This formidable team has secured the last eight South African Premiership titles. They also reached the 2024-25 CAF Champions League final.
As the sole club representing sub-Saharan Africa, they enter the tournament with considerable confidence. A favorable group drawing positions them against Ulsan HD and Fluminense. Mamelodi Sundowns will fancy their chances of bettering these opponents and reaching the last sixteen, even with Borussia Dortmund also in their group. From there, the possibilities for this strong African contender are intriguing.
Beyond Expectations: The Potential for Unforeseen Victories
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup offers a magnificent stage for significant upsets. While facing established European powerhouses, the underdog teams highlighted here possess unique strengths and formidable talent.
Their diverse tactical approaches and player rosters could certainly disrupt traditional outcomes. These clubs are poised to deliver captivating performances, challenging pre-tournament expectations, and showcasing global soccer's depth. The tournament promises an exciting display of talent and competition, making every match a potential breakthrough moment.
